District staff outline 2026 personnel plan, project 2.2% wage increase and three new FTEs

Karen, a district staff member, told the Pueblo West Metro District Board of Directors at a Sept. work session that salary planning for 2026 is underway and that staff recommend a 2.2% general salary increase. “Salary increases for 2026 are based on the Denver, Aurora, Lakewood consumer price index. We're looking at a 2.2% increase projected for 2026,” she said.

The presentation listed personnel changes by department. Staff proposed three net new full‑time equivalents (FTE) for 2026, bringing the district’s total to 145 full‑time positions and one part‑time seasonal position (lifeguards). Karen said the utility/water/wastewater group will add a plant operator and that two utilities maintenance technicians will be transferred from operational services, with one maintenance post eliminated. She also said the parks department will absorb a set of…